Maclura pomifera Osage orange (Moraceae) Deciduous tree

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Maclura pomifera
Osage orange
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Maclura pomifera plant species is found in Southern N. America - Arkansas to Texas. It is a member of the Moraceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Osage orange. Some home gardeners know the variety as M. aurantiaca. Toxylon pommifera.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Maclura pomifera
Common Name:  Osage orange
Family:  Moraceae
Author:  (Raf.)Schneider.

Known Hazards:  The milky sap can cause dermatitis in some people[200]. An extract and the juice of the fruit is toxic, though a 10% aqueous infusion and extract diluted 1:1 are not toxic[240].

Mature Height:  15   Mature Width:  12

Habitat:  Woods, fields and thickets in rich bottom lands[73, 83].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a well-drained soil in full sun[200]. Succeeds in poor soils and also in dry ones[20]. Plants are fairly tolerant of maritime exposure[K]. They dislike waterlogged soils[188]. Dormant mature plants are hardy to about -20°c though the young growth in spring can be cut back by late frosts[200] and young plants can be damaged in cold winters[188]. Plants require hot summers to fully ripen their wood if they are to thrive in areas with cold winters[188]. Plants are tolerant of severe pruning[200]. This species is notably resistant to honey fungus[200]. Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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